Joycelyn Ann Ortego

Joycelyn Ann Ortego, a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away on April 16, 2026, in Washington, Louisiana. Born on January 7, 1939, in Ville Platte, Louisiana, Joycelyn’s life was marked by a deep love for family, a caring spirit, and a passionate dedication.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church at 1:00pm with Father Corey Campeaux officiating. Burial will follow in Cedar Hill Cemetery.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Lafond-Ardoin Funeral Home of Opelousas from 9:00am until 12:30pm. A Rosary will be recited by Lace Thibodeaux at 11:30am.

Pallbearers will be Eric Quirk, Wesley Ortego, Dylan Bernard, Gage Louviere, Thomas Chehotsky, Cole Leger and Matthew Leger.

From the beginning, Joycelyn’s gentle nature and kind heart touched the lives of those around her. Her career in nursing was more than just a job—it was a true vocation. She devoted herself wholeheartedly to the care and comfort of others, embodying compassion with every patient she tended. Her unwavering commitment to helping those in need was a testament to her generous soul.

Joycelyn’s joys extended far beyond her professional life. She had a profound love for reading, often escaping into the pages of her favorite books. Cooking was another passion, with a special skill for Cajun cuisine—her cracklins were renowned among family and friends. Her kitchen was a place of warmth, laughter, and a place that brought her loved ones together. Along with her culinary talents, Joycelyn enjoyed to knit and was a patient fisherwoman, finding solace and happiness in these quiet, creative pursuits.

She was the second of nine children and they all learned from their mother that faith should play a central role in their lives. With this instilled in her life early, Joycelyn prayed her rosary faithfully, drawing strength and peace through her spiritual practice. In younger days, she helped her husband, Herbert in his garden, working side by side in the earth and finding joy in the fruits of their labor. She treasured the times she spent with her sisters-in-law, particularly relishing the slumber parties that bonded them with laughter and shared stories.

Above all, Joycelyn lived for her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. They were the center of her world—the source of her greatest pride and deepest love. Her nurturing spirit shaped their lives, and the memory of her unconditional support and warmth will forever be a blessing in their hearts.

Joycelyn is survived by her son, Stephen Ortego and his wife, Annette; her daughters, Carla Ortego Quirk and her husband, Paul, Judith Leger, and Shanna Bernard and her husband, Thomas; her grandchildren, Eric Quirk and his wife, Heidi, Brooke Chehotsky and her husband, Thomas, Gage Louviere and his companion, Mariah, Emily Voss and her husband, Christian, Wesley Ortego and his wife, Chloe, Jason Leger, Ellie Leger, Matthew Leger and his wife, Lauren, Dylan Bernard, Jacie Devillier and her husband, Wesley and Alexis Bernard; her great-grandchildren, Mason, Addison, Ace, Maverick, Beckette, Stefan, Cole, Arianna, Evie, Andi, Riley, Luke, Beau and Isabelle; her brothers, James Roberie and his wife, Leverta, Sharon Roberie and his wife, Ivey Dale and Bradley Roberie and his wife, Earline; her sisters, Mercedes Thibodeaux and Rebekah Thibodeaux and her husband, Davis; and a host of other dear family members and friends.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Herbert Ortego, Jr.; her parents, Emery and Edna Roberie; her son, Jay Ortego; her grandson, Lane Ortego; her siblings, Faye Correll, Bruce Roberie and Emery Roberie, Jr.

Joycelyn Ortego’s legacy is one of love, faith, and service. She leaves behind a world made better by her presence. She will forever remain in the hearts of those who were blessed to know her.

Family and friends are invited to sign and view the guestbook at www.lafondardoin.com.

Lafond-Ardoin Funeral Home of Opelousas, 2845 S. Union Street, Opelousas, LA 70570, (337) 942-2638, has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements.